Happy Sant Jordi

Happy Sant Jordi’s Day, or as we say in Catalonia “Feliç diada”. It is a beautiful day for everything it symbolizes. I’m sure you know this beautiful holiday, but I’m going to tell you why it’s so special.

How and what is celebrated in Sant Jordi?

First, Sant Jordi (George in Spanish) falls in April, a hot month when we can welcome spring as it deserves.

The tradition is to give a rose or a book to the people you love. Years ago the tradition was a little more classic. Men gave a red rose to women and women gave a book to men.

Sant Jordi in Barcelona

But it doesn’t end here, on Sant Jordi’s day, we try to escape, not even at lunchtime, to the emblematic streets of Rambla de Catalunya and the Ramblas. It is part of the tradition, not only to buy the rose and the book, but what if it is possible, to do it there.

Both streets look splendid with book and rose stands. It is a very nice feeling, the love for culture and the smell of nature are united with so many fresh roses.

The origin of the Sant Jordi celebration

Sant Jordi, was a Roman soldier considered a martyr, in his honor, the Barcelona flag has two crosses.

Moreover, the legend tells a beautiful love story. Sant Jordi was a knight who saved a princess from being devoured by a dragon. When he stuck his sword into it, roses sprang from its blood.

Today, April 23rd, also coincides with the day of the book, commemorating the anniversary of the death of Miguel de Cervantes and William Shakespeare.

It used to be like the Catalan Valentine’s Day, but over the years it has become a beautiful day, perfect to give roses and books to anyone you love. Family, couple, friends… Even department stores and some establishments give roses to their customers.

It is estimated that about 6 million roses are sold and 1.5 million books are sold.

In despite of the situation, let’s celebrate Saint George’s Day!

We know that this year the situation does not allow us to follow traditions to the letter, but we can celebrate the day. Do you know how?

Either of these two Maria Pascual jewels will be a sure hit. Place your order and surprise someone special, for example, your mother.

As for the books, you have a couple of options. You can give them as a gift through Amazon, which delivers them, or buy them in digital format. Although this option is not the same as having the book in printed format, but it allows you to make a good gift.

Also, you should not miss this year’s celebration, as there is talk of moving it to July 23rd

Our top 10 recommended books for Sant Jordi.

Well, you know how it is with books and movies, it’s very personal. It depends on the literary genre you like.

I’m going to share with you here some bestsellers to give you some ideas or inspiration. I have made a small selection of different literary genres.